Ex-ATS Officer Claims He Was Told to Arrest Bhagwat
A former officer of the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), Mehiboob Mujawar, has alleged that he was directed to arrest Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat during the early stages of the investigation into the 2008 Malegaon blast case.
Shocking Allegation After Acquittals
The claim comes just days after all seven accused in the case were acquitted by a special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court due to lack of evidence. Mujawar has said that he was asked to detain Bhagwat to support a broader narrative linking the blast to “saffron terror,” a term used in political discourse to describe alleged involvement of Hindu extremist groups in terror-related acts.
Refusal and Fallout
Mujawar claims he refused to carry out the alleged instruction, calling it unlawful and baseless. Following his refusal, he says he was suspended on false charges and targeted internally. The officer further stated that his career and reputation were damaged as a result of his decision, and that he possesses records to support his version.
No Mention in Official Investigation
Mohan Bhagwat’s name was never included in any official charge sheet or legal documents related to the case. The original ATS investigation later transitioned to NIA control, which conducted its own assessment and eventually could not substantiate the original claims against the accused.
Political and Public Reactions
The explosive claim has reignited political debate over the handling of the Malegaon blast case. Several leaders have called for a thorough inquiry into the original ATS probe, with some accusing earlier governments of misusing law enforcement agencies for political ends.
Victims’ Families Still Await Closure
Families of the victims, who lost their loved ones in the 2008 blast, have expressed continued frustration over the slow legal process. Many say they now feel even more uncertain about whether the real perpetrators were ever identified or brought to justice.
